Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool is the Standard Chartered Men’s Player of the Month for the month of February.

The captain is vying for the award for the first time in the 2023–24 season. He has been in fantastic form and has assisted the Reds in winning five games during that time, including the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea.

Voters on Liverpoolfc.com chose Van Dijk over teammates Conor Bradley and Caoimhin Kelleher, who finished second and third, respectively.

“It’s a huge tribute to all the boys who have stepped up for us to get the results, certainly,” the No. 4 stated to Liverpoolfc.com after winning the accolade at the AXA Training Centre on Friday. “I’m proud, of course.

The lads really stood up, especially the younger boys, and they deserve a lot of respect for that, especially in light of all the injuries, problems, and challenges we had. Of course, I had a hand in it.

I’m honoured to captain the squad. In any event, receiving a trophy is fantastic. Needless to say, the result, along with our perseverance and responsiveness, were outstanding. I have the greatest respect for the young boys.

“We simply have to maintain the current atmosphere at Anfield and the AXA [Training Centre].”

Van Dijk not only led Liverpool’s defence in all six of its games in February, but he also scored twice in crucial circumstances.

After triumphs over Burnley and Brentford, the center-half scored the game’s equaliser in the exhilarating comeback victory over Luton Town.

Then, deep into extra time at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final, he scored the game-winning goal to earn his first award as Reds captain.

Van Dijk continued, “I want to give my all both on and off the pitch and by being a dependable member of the squad in order to repay the team and the club for its importance.

“It’s a dream come true for me to play at the greatest level and for a team like Liverpool, and I truly enjoy it. I think I’ve got the best ‘job’ in the world.”

He paused to ponder getting cutlery and said, “Hopefully there will be many more,” while sporting the captain’s armband. The fact that the entire day was devoted to selecting the winner and working with the gaffer made it special.

The day was made much better by the presence of my family and kids. That day was so amazing that I will always remember it.

“But at the top level, it’s a quick turnaround, and the next game is the main focus, which is something I also enjoy.”